CEFR, a proprietary fast neutron reactor developed by China Institute of Atomic Energy, part of China National Nuclear Corporation, became critical on July 21, 2010. The development indicates that China National Nuclear Corporation has established a well functioned R&D and standard system for the sodium-cooled fast reactor, covering reactor physics, thermal techniques, dynamics, structure, looping, instrumental control, and electric part. Chinese scientists have produced a range of proprietary innovations, and more than a hundred patents. It is worth mentioning that the experimental reactor, made up of more than 200 sub-systems and over 7,000 pieces of equipment, has realized a localization as high as 70% or more.

Chinese scientists have also made some breakthroughs in engineering design. For example, they developed a passive residual heat removal system for accidents, the first of its kind in the world. Additionally, scientists have completed the design of a reactor refueling system.